What a year it's been!
It’s been an entire year. One whole year since I last taught an in-person fitness class. I remember the lead up to the day. I went out for dinner the night before with a friend. A Friday night in a popular downtown Toronto restaurant, except it was eerily quiet. We said our goodbyes, not knowing that would be the last time I ate inside a restaurant.
The Saturday morning of my classes on March 14th 2020 were extremely quiet. I remember the class only having a few people in it as a lot of people chose to cancel their spot out of fear of the unknown. By the time I took the subway to my final class that afternoon, I remember entering the studio, sanitizing my hands, going to the washroom and washing them again, and then sanitizing right after. I was worried but I still didn’t know what was to come. By Monday, studios had closed their doors and we headed to IG lives. I quickly whipped up a virtual schedule, upgraded on Zoom, and we began.
This year has been the most unexpected of my life. But I admittedly have to say that although it came with some challenges, it also came with some really positive moments as well.
Things I miss about in-person classes and training:
Community. Being able to come together for collective movement. No matter what people were going through individually, they all came together to move and feel good.
Ability to coach a group more safely. Unless you’ve got your camera on, or it is a one-on-one session, I am unable to be sure everyone moves in the most safe and effective way. In person sessions are definitely a much better option in these particular situations.
Special moments with individuals. Eye contact in class, a little cheer or boost in a tough moment. Although you can give shout outs on Zoom, it was nice to experience those special moments live and in person.
Creating connections before and after class. Now that class can start by the click of a button and there is no travel to and from, there is way less interaction before and after. While I appreciate the time-saver (see below), it was nice getting to chat with clients outside of the workout and learn more about their lives.
Things I love about virtual work:
Ability to remain connected. Everyone is super appreciative to be able to remain connected and I think as a result, value these moments that much more. I am so thankful for technology to keep us moving together no matter what.
Time-saver. I am not running around all day rushing to get to and from all of my sessions. I feel much better personally as I am not running myself into the ground and constantly in a state of exhaustion. I am better able to take care of myself and give my best effort when I am client-facing.
Reduces barriers to movement. There is no travel involved, and although for safety reasons I recommend it, if you are new or nervous, you can show up with your camera off in the comfort of your own home and just move. No pressure to dress a certain way, no TTC cost to get there. More people are definitely moving with me now that they can really decide when it works for them, and how that session looks on their side.
Cost effective for clients. The cost is cheaper for clients to participate online which is great. I see fitness and movement as an essential along with food, water, shelter, clothing, and other basic necessities. It makes me feel good that people do not have to break the bank to make this happen now.
Ability to work from anywhere. In all honesty, I am loving what this year has done for my business. I can now be anywhere with internet and some space to move and I am able to work. I am not tied to a location and can still operate successfully no matter where I am. If I want to go on vacation (one day!), head to my family’s cottage, or be at home, I am able to stay connected and work.
This year has been tough. It has impacted everyone in different ways. What I do hope you’re able to do is at least see the silver linings like I did above. I recognize not everyone has experienced as many positive moments or successes from this year like I have in my profession, but I do think we have learned the value of our close connections.
I wish you a year filled with positive physical and mental health experiences!
Yours in self-discovery,
Rachel